The Power of Community in Restoration | Restoration Industry Association (RIA)

Humans are hardwired for community, and true community is a group united by purpose, relationships over time and creating value for each other through ongoing interaction.

The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) offers the power of community for all restoration professionals.

In the restoration industry, success comes down to more than technical skill or the latest equipment and technology. Sustained growth happens when restorers step out of their silos and into spaces where ideas flow freely and relationships are forged. That’s the kind of environment the RIA has created through its Regional Networking Events, which are rapidly becoming one of the most valuable resources for restoration professionals across the country.

The power of these gatherings lies in their unique blend of learning and community. These regional events are designed by restorers, for restorers to come together at the local level to share insights, discuss issues affecting their businesses and operations, and support each other in managing the unique challenges restorers face each and every day.

The events include dedicated networking time, session content focused on the most relevant topics impacting restorers, and the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the host company’s facility. The peer-to-peer exchanges, honest discussions about challenges and solutions, and the chance to see how other companies operate combine to offer a kind of value that simply cannot be found in online social forums, webinars or position statements.

Attending an AGA event doesn’t just give restorers more knowledge; it changes how they approach their business. For example, attendees might leave with a smarter strategy after talking with a fellow owner who has already adapted to recent market changes. Restorers often gain new insights into getting paid faster, building operational efficiencies, diversifying their revenue and avoiding some of the costly mistakes others have made. Some may even reimagine their facility layout after walking through another restoration company’s warehouse.

Most importantly, restorers leave these RIA networking events with new relationships—ones built on trust, shared experience and mutual respect. In an industry where referrals, reputation and collaboration are critical, those relationships often become true game changers.

Looking ahead, the RIA has several networking events planned for Fall 2025, each designed to bring the same level of impact in different regions. Events will be hosted by:

MidSouth Cleaning & Restoration Association in Charlotte, North Carolina (October 16-17th)
McCabe Restoration in Memphis Tennessee (October 29th)
Thomasville Restoration in Baltimore, Maryland (November 12th)

Restoration professionals have multiple opportunities to engage, learn, and grow.

At these events, you can expect discussions that cut through industry noise and focus on real issues, along with networking opportunities that build lasting relationships. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to help you stay competitive, connected and confident in your next steps.

Industry leaders will share updates on RIA’s advocacy efforts and key issues affecting restorers, including insurance practices, carrier relationships and payment delays. Sessions will dive into brand building, leveraging technology, understanding the cost of doing business, business coaching and much more.

RIA surveys show that networking events consistently rank among the most valuable advocacy tools for restorers, particularly when it comes to translating industry shifts into actionable business decisions.

In a world where restoration professionals have to move at a relentless pace, these events offer a rare and invaluable pause—a chance to connect with peers, share stories, and gather the tools and relationships that will drive your restoration business forward.

If you’re looking to grow not just in size, but in strength, strategy and purpose, the answer may be as simple as showing up. When you attend an RIA AGA networking event, you’re not just collecting business cards. You’re investing in the relationships, knowledge and advocacy that help you—and the entire industry—thrive.